Annual Report FY26

TRAVMEDIA IMM MARKETPLACE

THE PURPOSE Increase awareness of Greater Portland by connecting directly with influential travel journalists, photographers, and content creators who shape travel decisions and inspire visitation through earned media coverage. OUR STRATEGY Build and strengthen relationships with key media contacts through t argeted one-on one meetings, strategic story pitching, and ongoing engagement. By showcasing Greater Portland’s unique experiences, seasonal opportunities, and emerging stories, we position the destination for future media coverage and inclusion in national and international travel conversations.

OVERVIEW In January 2026, the organization participated in the TravMedia’s International Media Marketplace (IMM) in New York City, where representative Dave Page conducted 24 one-on-one meetings with journalists, editors, photographers, and content creators. Conversations highlighted Greater Portland’s growing culinary scene, winter travel opportunities, outdoor recreation, sustainability initiatives, boutique accommodations, and culturally driven dining experiences — generating multiple follow-up opportunities for future story development and hosted media visits. MEDIA INTEREST & STORY DEVELOPMENT • Food & Wine writer Veronica Stoddart discussed a potential feature focused on Portland’s lobster culture, seafood dining, and standout restaurants. • Travel journalist Chez Chesak expressed interest in positioning Portland as a winter outdoor adventure hub, highlighting Casco Bay recreation, island exploration, and seasonal accessibility via Amtrak from Boston. • Journalists including Jessica Puckett and Laura Begley Bloom showed strong interest in winter and shoulder-season travel opportunities.

• Multiple writers explored stories centered around Portland’s evolving culinary identity, particularly the growing influence of Asian chefs blending cultural traditions with Maine seafood and sustainability practices. • Media conversations also focused on boutique lodging, family travel, sustainable fisheries, and experiential coastal tourism — creating opportunities for future coverage across travel, lifestyle, and food media outlets.

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